Part of Pakistan’s prolific entrances of all-rounders who quickly made an impact following their international debuts, Abdul Razzaq was introduced into Pakistan’s international set up as a bowler.

Razzaq made his debut in the home ODIs against Zimbabwe in 1996, used as a handy bowler who gave economic middle-over spells. While never struggling initially, during the tour of South Africa, his medium-pace bowling looked toothless on bouncy continental surfaces, often being severely punished for runs. His bowling grew in stature as months passed, and he additionally honed his batting skills, improving as a pinch-hitter. By the 1999 World Cup, he replaced Rameez Raja at the number three slot. His ability to rotate strike and be a handy pinch-hitter adapted Razzaq to either come in at the loss of an early wicket or consolidate a good start. During the 1999 World Cup in England, he was a key member in Pakistan’s final-place finish. Progress in ODIs over his first three years was deemed well enough for a Test debut, earning his maiden green cap in a one-off appearance on tour to Australia in 1999. It took him seven innings to register his first Test fifty, scored during Pakistan’s travel to the West Indies. A maiden Test century came in 2000 at Faisalabad in England’s sub continental visit. The same year, he also took a hat-trick against Sri Lanka, providing highlights of his dual ability.

Razzaq remained a mainstay in the Pakistani line-up, playing in the 2003 World Cup. While niggling knocks often kept him out, it sometimes affected his bowling speed and batting rhythm. It also led to his exclusion from the 2007 World Cup. Upon being fit, he was overlooked for Pakistan’s World Twenty20 squad, which led to him announcing retirement in retaliation. He went on to play in the unrecognized rebel league, thereby invoking a ban from the Pakistani Board. The two later reconciled with Razzaq calling off his retirement, to be selected in the 2009 World T20 squad, which Pakistan eventually won. While injuries have taken its toll on the multifaceted Razzaq, he still remains one of Pakistan cricket’s enduring faces during his current era that peaked and toughened in symmetry.